OKI boosts printing efficiency in Africa’s leading toy store chain

The challenge

To maximise the positive customer experiences in each of its retail stores, Toys R Us delegates daily tasks relating to the management of each store through printed documentation. Each store has its own printer and these devices are also used to print other essential information required by store staff in each Toys R Us branch. 

In maintaining its position as the leading toy and children’s clothing retailer in southern Africa, Toys R Us requires reliable printing with print costs kept at a minimum across its expansive portfolio of stores. However, the retailer identified difficulties in managing ordering, maintenance and budgeting when it came to printing. Relying on standalone devices from two separate vendors, Toys R Us was dealing with a huge ink expenditure, meaning that print resources were also becoming difficult to manage.  

The solution

IT services provider and OKI partner First Technology presented Toys R Us with a cost-per-page proposal, developed around OKI devices. While other IT service providers were also given the opportunity to tender for the nationwide contract, First Technology was able to meet the retailer’s requirements for an affordable and scalable solution using OKI’s A4 Mono Multifunction printer (MFP).

With Toys R Us satisfied that the recommended solution would meet its requirements, the cost-per-page solution was rolled out to all stores with OKI’s network managed printers implemented in each store. Up to two OKI devices were implemented in larger stores.

The benefits

OKI’s toner solutions have reproduced an immense cost saving from the previous ink-based system and the monthly billing structure, which is a huge advantage to Toys R Us. The retailer is now able to effectively manage its stores' printing costs and keep a close eye on expenditure. A total business saving of about R450 000 annually has been realised with OKI’s printing solution. The Toys R Us stores are more efficient, with faster turnaround times for receiving stock and with faster print times and scan-to-email facilities.

The future

OKI’s devices have had a positive effect on working practices across Toys R Us retail stores throughout southern Africa. As a result, the retailer recognises the potential that OKI devices can bring in other areas of the business. “We are impressed with the OKI devices implemented as part of the First Technology solution,” says Bird. “We will certainly consider OKI for future projects as the products meet our business needs.”

Toys R Us is a well-established international brand commonly referred to as the “world’s greatest toy store”. In southern Africa, the company boasts 53 physical stores, two of which are located in Namibia and Zambia. The company’s key focus is on providing customers across all age groups, from children to grandparents, with an exciting range of toy and clothing products, while providing great in-store experiences complemented by unbeatable value.